United Nations climate chief Simon Stiell has supported Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s remarks that India’s investments in clean energy have helped protect its economic growth amid global oil price shocks. Describing the Prime Minister’s comments as “very salient”, Stiell highlighted the role of renewable energy and stronger electricity grids in reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
In an interview with ANI from Antalya, Türkiye, during the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31), Stiell also welcomed India’s Green Energy Corridor initiative, calling it a major step towards strengthening the country’s energy infrastructure.
Stiell said rising fossil fuel import costs are contributing to inflation across economies worldwide. He emphasised that greater electrification powered by renewable energy and improved grids can help countries reduce energy bills and pollution.
Referring to PM Modi’s comments at the Bharat Renewable Energy Summit and Expo 2026 on November 2, Stiell said investments in clean energy had helped India manage the global oil crisis.
PM Modi had stated that India’s economic challenges could have been much more severe if the country had not invested in clean energy and developed supporting systems over the previous decade.
Stiell described the Green Energy Corridor as an important development for India, noting that stronger electricity grids and battery storage could deliver economic benefits.
He also highlighted the Turkish Presidency’s proposed global 35-by-35 electrification pledge at COP31.
According to Stiell, technologies already available today could electrify up to 75% of global energy demand. He called for faster deployment to expand access to electricity and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
COP31 is being held in Antalya, Türkiye, from November 9 to 20, 2026.
Stiell said the conference is focused on converting existing climate commitments into practical results through negotiations and the Global Climate Action Agenda.
Key priorities include:
- Reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
- Strengthening climate adaptation.
- Expanding climate finance.
- Supporting just transitions.
- Accelerating electrification and renewable energy adoption.
- Reducing methane emissions and waste.
Stiell described the Bhotekoshi floods as a reminder of the vulnerability of mountain environments, particularly the Hindu Kush Himalayas.
He also referred to concerns raised by scientists and local communities about climate risks facing the Himalayan region. On the rejection of Nepal and Bhutan’s proposed supplementary agenda submissions for a dedicated mountain climate agenda, he said the decision on how countries address the issue belongs to the participating parties.
Stiell stressed that limiting global warming and reducing the duration and scale of any temperature overshoot above 1.5°C remain critical.
